The Governor, on an inspection walkabout in Patong, said, “[Provincial Police Chief] Pol Maj Gen Ong-Art Phiewruangnont arrested Warunyu Jornmuang after the discovery of a lewd show inside the bar.”

Rihanna, after her visit to the bar in late September, tweeted, “Either I was **** wasted last night or I saw a Thai woman pull a live bird, 2 turtles, razors, shoot darts and ping pong, all out of her *****.”

She described herself, possibly tongue-in-cheek, as “traumatised”.

Pol Maj Pratuang Polmana of Kathu Police said he planned to send a letter to the Governor recommending that the bar be shuttered temporarily as punishment.

But the Governor’s walkabout was not about cracking down on ping-pong shows, it was more of a display of reassurance for tourists that their security is a priority.

Walking with police and local officials, he drew fascinated looks from tourists, some of whom greeted him and asked to pose for pictures with him.

“We didn’t even know who he is, but after talking with him, he seems like a nice guy,” said a Lebanese visitor. “It’s great for the Governor to come here accompanied by police to greet and chat with people.”